He probably heard that curiosity is the cognitive process that acts as a precursor to motivation. Without curiosity, there’s little drive to explore, learn new things, or seek new relationships. But this is exactly what an agile leader needs today!

Curiosity is rarely an issue for kids, who love to try new things and can’t stop imagining new adventures. But as adults, how can you uncover your creative genius and nurture an inquisitive spirit?

It could be far more accessible than you think! Discover the unexpected benefits of curiosity for leaders (according to neuroscience).

The neuroscience of curiosity

Curiosity is one of the oldest cognitive pathways. Which means 1. it is well-ingrained in our brains, and 2. it works well.

Go about your usual activities but get curiosity to work for you. Be creative with your commuting routes. Pick up that task you usually discard because “it’s not really for you”. Reach out to a colleague and ask about her job.

Another aspect of curiosity for leaders is connected to empathy. Curious people tend to express more empathy because they prefer asking questions instead of reacting by stating their truth. By doing so, they create the right conditions for a constructive discussion. This fosters collaboration and helps everyone make impactful decisions.

So how can you promote curiosity for others and yourself? Start with being accessible for questions. Ask questions yourself. Can you think ‘Pareto’ and let others do 80% of the talking? Can you be vulnerable enough to show that you don’t know everything, and set up “curiosity conversations” to gather some insights?

Curiosity for leaders: an asset for team motivation

Neuroscience tells us curiosity strengthens motivation. And if there’s one thing you need in a successful team, it’s an unshakeable sense of motivation.

The best part of engaging in curiosity for leaders is role-modelling a sense of adventure, where ideas can be expressed and tested.

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Some scientists have reported that curiosity is “as important as intelligence”. Curiosity for leaders is not just a matter of style. It’s a way to elevate your leadership game.

Our world demands that leaders completely reinvent their industries from the get-go. When you constantly need to seek new ways to capture information and transform the existing, cultivating a curious mind is something you should role model to embrace disruption. The result? You make innovative change happen.

How do you nurture your own curiosity? Leave a comment below and share with the community.

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